Don Lee, also known as Ma Dong-seok, returns as Detective Ma Seok-do in “The Roundup: No Way Out,” the latest installment in the Crime City franchise. This action-packed crime film takes audiences on a thrilling ride through the dangerous world of drug trafficking and detective work.
A Detective’s New Mission: Battling a Deadly Drug
Seven years after the events of the first film, Ma Seok-do finds himself part of a new team investigating a powerful new drug called Hiper. With a shipment of Hiper worth $30 million causing chaos between the criminal underground in Seoul and the yakuza, Ma Seok-do’s Metropolitan Investigation Unit is determined to put an end to the drug’s distribution.
A Shift in Tone and Approach
“The Roundup: No Way Out” takes a different approach compared to its predecessor. Director Lee Sang-yong returns, but the film introduces newcomer Kim Min-sung as the screenwriter. Unlike the hard-hitting action of the previous film, No Way Out focuses more on detective work, involving questioning, planning, and unraveling clues during a major case.
Balancing Action and Humor
While the action scenes are not as intense as in the first film, “The Roundup: No Way Out” compensates with humor and lighthearted moments. Despite the serious subject matter of drug trafficking, the film incorporates tongue-in-cheek jokes that add a playful tone to the story. The film’s endless jabs at humor provide comic relief amid the gritty crime elements.
One-Dimensional Characters and Missed Opportunities
One of the film’s major drawbacks lies in its lack of standout characters. The performances feel one-dimensional, with stereotypical gangsters and generic cops failing to leave a lasting impression. Although Don Lee’s character, Ma Seok-do, shines, the supporting cast lacks charisma and defining traits.
Potential for the Future
“The Roundup: No Way Out” may not match the sheer entertainment value of its predecessor, but it sets the stage for the expanding Crime City franchise. With more films in the works, the series aims to become South Korea’s answer to “The Fast and the Furious” franchise. Fans hope for future Roundup films to deliver impressive action and memorable performances.
As the Crime City franchise continues to grow, “The Roundup: No Way Out” lays the groundwork for more thrilling adventures, ensuring that Ma Seok-do’s relentless pursuit of justice will captivate audiences in the years to come.
